MADRAS, OR -- A political newcomer is heading to the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners. With nearly 60-percent of the vote, Mark Wunsch defeated two-term incumbent Commissioner Mae Huston on Tuesday.

He attributes the win to his background, “I think my big focus was ag and natural resources. And the need that we have currently in Jefferson County with the drought and other things, I think was a big part of it.”

The 33-year-old grew up in Jefferson County on the cattle ranch he now operates. He feels that perspective will help him guide the county, “I think we need to be methodical when we’re thinking about growth and look at the bigger picture. What is this county going to look like in 5, 10, 20 years. And make sure we’re set up for that future success, and not have a short-term vision when it comes to growth.”

Wunsch will be the first commissioner in 24 years from the agricultural industry. He thinks that resonated with Jefferson County voters, “I just appreciate their support and vision in me to help lead and help this county out. Very humbling feeling to get that so I’m just really excited.”